Frequently asked questions
- Farmstay Australia FAQ's
- Farmstay New Zealand FAQ’s
- General-FAQ's
- Hospitality Jobs Australia FAQ's
- Hospitality Jobs New Zealand FAQ's
- Internship Australia FAQ's
- Internship Canada FAQs
- Internship New Zealand FAQ's
- Process to Apply
- Ranchstay Canada FAQ's
- Resort Jobs Canada FAQ's
- Tourism Training Australia FAQ's
At your orientation in your arrival city you’ll meet other participants from all over the world who have arrived at the same time as you. When you arrive at your placement location, you’ll also be introduced to other program participants who are living near you, regardless of when they arrived.
All participants will receive a certificate upon completion of their program. Internship host companies also issue a certificate of completion if you complete the required placement in a satisfactory manner.
It is compulsory that all foreign applicants purchase travel insurance prior to arriving at their destination. You must also ensure that your insurance covers you for any accidents in the work-place as well as for outside of the work place. Internex is not responsible for any insurance claims, these must be raised with your insurance company.
Yes, you will need an Australian tax file number (TFN). Information will be sent to you regarding this prior to your arrival and we will help you to apply for your TFN during your arrival orientation.
Yes, you will need to have an Australian bank account where your wages are paid into. Information will be sent to you regarding this prior to your arrival and we will help you to open a bank account during your arrival orientation. This will include an appointment at the local bank.
Yes, you will definitely get free-time, however you are not guaranteed any holidays during your placement period. Should you need time away from the placement then you can request this from your manager. All time off should be requested when the hotel/resort is quiet, i.e. during the off season and not during the weekends or public holidays. Remember, the holiday times are the busy times in hotels and resort communities. More information will be covered in your personal employment contract with your employer.
If you are traveling to one of our destinations we highly recommend giving yourself some time before or after your placement to see the country. When we are making your placement we will provide advice about how long you’ll need to see the country or any particular region before you depart.
We’re partnered with several local travel organisations so you can book a travel package within Australia, Canada or New Zealand where you can meet other like minded travellers and also have relationships with tour companies in North America, South America, South Africa, South East Asia and Fiji where we can offer advice.
Additionally, we can advise you about any local tours or weekly/monthly events arranged by our partners.
Let us know any requirements in the notes section of your application form.
Day to day, the majority of your time is likely to be spent at the farm and with the family giving you time to learn the culture of New Zealand. We encourage you to get away from the farm when you have the time to explore the local areas. Most farms are quite some distance from the local town so it is helpful if you have your own vehicle (speak to Internex if you would like to purchase a vehicle and we can assist with this in Auckland). You will often have the chance to go into the local town with your host or flat mates / co-workers to help with grocery shopping and attend any social outings etc. It’s important to try and make friends in the local area to give you time away from the farm and people to explore with in your spare time.
You’ll have time off each day and week, but most of that time will still be spent at the farm, as most farms are quite some distance from the local town. However, you will get the chance to do things like help with the grocery shopping and go to family events, so you’ll get out and about!
We recommend that you take holidays either before your placement starts or after it ends. Please ask us about when might be the best period for time off during your time abroad and we’ll be able to advise. If you’re interested in travelling around Australia (or beyond), we can help you organise this too.
You’ll have time off each day and week, but most of that time will still be spent at the farm, as most farms are quite some distance from the local town. However, you will get the chance to do things like help with the grocery shopping and go to family events, so you’ll get out and about!
We recommend that you take holidays either before your placement starts or after it ends. Please ask us about when might be the best period for time off during your time abroad and we’ll be able to advise. If you’re interested in travelling around Canada (or beyond), we can help you organise this too.
Internships do not usually have a built-in holiday break, however we can arrange these on a case-by-case basis. If you have a set holiday date (as many local university and study abroad students do) or you have family visiting, for example, let us know during the interview process and we’ll arrange this time off with your host organisation when we negotiate your placement. Remember also, that once your placement agreement is in place, you’ll know your expected hours to be working and can plan your weekly time-off away around this.
If you’ve booked accommodation with INTERNeX, please note that you are not entitled to refunds on your accommodation fees if you are not staying in the accommodation during your any break from the placement. For this reason, we recommend you take holidays either before your internship starts or after it ends.
We’re partnered with several local travel organisations so you can book a travel package within New Zealand before you depart your home country and will discuss travel plans and options in your initial consultation and can book these for you when you confirm your arrival and departure dates.
Usually, internships do not have a built-in holiday break. However, we can arrange these on a case-by-case basis. If you have a set holiday date (as many local university and study abroad students do) or you have family visiting, for example, please let us know during the interview process and we’ll arrange this time off with your host organisation when we negotiate your placement. Remember also that once your placement agreement is in place, you’ll know your expected hours of work and can plan your time away around this.
Please note that if you’ve booked accommodation you won’t get refunds on your accommodation fees if you take time off during your internship. For this reason, we recommend you take holidays either before your internship starts or after it ends. We’re partnered with several local travel organisations so you can book a travel package within Australia – or beyond – before you depart your home country. You can book these here.
We can also provide advice about how long you’ll need to see the country or any particular region before you depart. Additionally, we can advise you about any local tours or weekly/monthly events arranged by our partners that you may be interested in.
Usually, internships do not have a built-in holiday break, however, if you have a set holiday date (as many local university and study abroad students do) or you have family visiting, for example we can arrange these on a case-by-case basis if you let us know in advance so we can negotiate it with your host organisation. During your internship period in Vancouver we have many local events and monthly weekend trips away so you have a chance to get to see the country.
Please note that you won’t get refunds on your accommodation fees if you take time off during your internship. For this reason, we recommend you take holidays either before your internship starts or after it ends. We’re partnered with several local travel organisations within Canada, USA or Central America before or after your internship with our travel team.
If you are good at work you may get a reference letter, not all companies offer them to casual workers, however if you complete your placement you can request a certificate from Internex.
We have a very active public relations team that will make your stay in Canada as fun as possible. From weekly pub or BBQ nights to monthly trips to places like the Rocky Mountains, Whistler and Vancouver Island you will be able to meet many people your own age who want to explore Vancouver and the surrounds with you. You can check out some of our interns and their events on Youtube here
The team at Internex have worked in the youth education and travel industry for over 20 years, so we know how to make your overseas experience as seamless and enjoyable as possible. Our team have all lived, worked, and studied overseas and know firsthand the challenges of moving to a new country and will be there to support you every step of the way.
We’ll make sure you know what to expect and how to prepare, we’ll take care of any practical difficulties you may have, and our local representatives will ensure you are happy and looked after while you’re away.
Internex is also dedicated to providing the best quality programs at affordable prices. Accommodation and meals (where included) make up the bulk of a program’s cost. Remaining fees are for our local representatives who ensure you’re taken care of in every country we represent.
We meet all our participants on Zoom or in person to learn more about them. We personally visit our hosts to ensure the highest standards and when you live with one of our hosts in homestays or farmstay we collect criminal records and have them complete an application form to ensure they understand the expectations of our participants.
We are not a search engine, we are real people that ensure this real experience is as good as it can be and all stakeholders are satisfied with the outcome.
We want you to be safe and happy while you learn and have fun abroad!
In a hotel, resort, restaurant, retail store or tourism company in tourism communities.
You’ll be placed in one of our partner tourism organisations, which may mean a hotel, a resort, a restaurant, or a tourism company such as an activity provider. All of our 50+ partners are located in Alberta and British Columbia. You may be placed anywhere from the Rocky Mountains to Banff, Jasper, Whistler, Lake Louise, or the Lower Mainland.
You’ll be placed in a hospitality or tourism organisation. This may be working in a hotel, a campground, an activity provider, a rental car company, a restaurant, an event centre, or a luxury lodge. Most jobs are in tourist towns or remote tourism destinations, across the most beautiful parts of New Zealand, in both the North and South Islands. If you already have extensive experience in the sector, placements may also be available for you in Auckland.
We offer accommodation support and can organise where you will stay before you arrive.
For those on a farm program your accommodation is typically located with your host family.
Those taking a volunteer program will typically live at the volunteer station.
For those on work programs you’ll live either in staff accommodation or in privately arranged local accommodation.
If you’re taking an internship we can match you with a homestay host family or provide you with a private hostel room. Learn more here
We’ll organise either staff accommodation or private rental accommodation for you. In staff accommodation, you’ll live with up to four others, and in private accommodation, you’ll live with up to two others. We’ll discuss what would be the best fit for you when organising your placement.
Some hotels, campgrounds, and hostels offer staff accommodation, which you will share with up to four others. In this case, your accommodation costs will come out of your wages (including power, water, and gas). Where staff accommodation is not available, we’ll advise you on private homestay or hostel options. Meals are not necessarily included with your accommodation, but you will have the facilities to prepare your own food. Some very remote hotels, which do not provide cooking facilities, will provide three cooked meals per day.
We’ll organise your accommodation on this program. You’ll live in shared accommodation/dormitories or cabins on your host’s property.
All of our interns stay in Homestay accommodation for at least the first 4 weeks of their stay in Canada. We find families that have good connections via public transport into the city. As Vancouver is a big city we do our best to make sure your travel time is as short as possible with a maximum commute time from your homestay to your internship in under an hour. Most interns book accommodation for the whole duration of their internship but if you only want to book for 4 weeks then we recommend you use a provider such as AirBNB.
The normal rule is 3 months in advance however we are flexible with this, depending on the current market need for employees. Please note however that you may not be receive your placement until soon before your departure.
Placements usually start on Wednesday or Thursday, depending on the program and location. You do need to be somewhat flexible depending on your host’s requirements. We’ll inform you when you receive your arrival package or placement agreement about your exact start date.
If you’re booking directly with Internex, you’ll need to pay your $200 program deposit at the time of applying. This is refundable if your program does not go ahead after consultation. If you are accepted your deposit goes toward your program fee.
If accepted to the program after your Zoom meeting with your placement supervisor, you will receive a letter of confirmation.
You will then need to pay your remaining fees at least 30 days before your placement starts and you receive your placement agreement.
If you’ve booked via one of our partner agencies or universities, you may need to pay them directly, and they will transfer your fees to Internex.
Your tasks will depend on your experience and motivations, as well as what your host needs at the time (depending on season, type of farm etc.). In general, you’ll undertake a mix of indoor and outdoor work, including helping with animals, cleaning, feeding, odd jobs around the farm, helping tend a vegetable garden, helping with the children and general household tasks such as cooking and cleaning.
Your tasks will depend on your experience and motivations, as well as what your host needs at the time (depending on season, type of farm etc.). In general, you’ll undertake a mix of indoor and outdoor work, helping with the animals/horses, feeding, cleaning and caring for animals, helping to look after the children, helping tend a vegetable garden, and general household tasks such as cooking and cleaning.
Your activities and/or projects during your internship will all be clearly outlined in your placement agreement. These will be in accordance with your preferences, your host organisation’s projects at the time, and any requirements your university may have. In general, you’ll have a range of tasks. You’ll start with fairly simple things, but as your internship progresses and your confidence in the role develops, you’ll be given more responsibilities and complex tasks.
Your activities and/or projects during your internship will all be clearly outlined in your placement agreement. These will be in accordance with your background, preferences, your host organisation’s projects at the time, and any requirements your university may have. In general, you’ll have a range of tasks related to a project that will evolve as the project develops.
Your activities and/or projects during your internship will all be clearly outlined in your placement agreement. These will be in accordance with your preferences, your host organisation’s projects at the time, and any requirements your university may have. In general, you’ll have a range of tasks. You’ll start with fairly simple things, but as your internship progresses and your confidence in the role develops, you’ll be given more responsibilities and complex tasks.
Each of our programs specifies which visas you can use to undertake it. For more information about visas please visit our services page.
You need a working holiday visa (subclass 417), work and holiday visa (subclass 462), or work rights in Australia.
You’ll need a working holiday visa or work rights in Canada. For more information, please see our visa information page.
You will need either a working holiday (subclass 417) visa or a work and holiday (subclass 462) visa.
If you are not a citizen or permanent resident of New Zealand or Australia you may need an NZeTa visa, visitor visa, student visa, work visa, or working holiday visa to participate in placement, Please see our visas section for more information.
This depends on the position you are offered. It is advisable to bring black pants and work shoes as well as a collared shirt in case there is any opportunity to meet any hotel representative prior to starting your placement. It is also advisable to have a pair of non-slip comfortable shoes if you are working in a back of house position. Some positions and some hotels may ask you to purchase some additional uniform (up to $200) however most provide the majority of the uniform you will need. Some may ask for a deposit on your uniform and this is returned when the uniform is returned in good condition. Some placements require you to be outside so in winter you may need to purchase thermal clothing. All uniform requirements will be specified at the time of the placement offer.
We work with most types of farms however we primarily make placements on farms with horses, dairy farms, livestock farms or family farms where they require support with the children. Some other farms such as mixed farms, agricultural, guest and other types of animals may be available on request.
You must be able to obtain a valid New Zealand Working Holiday Visa or equivalent New Zealand work visa
We are looking for people who are outgoing, fun, happy, smiling, hardworking, good at communicating with others and who really want to learn about the Australian Hospitality and Tourism Industry. Some placements require a certain skill set but some do not. Customer service experience is always a plus as is any related educational training.
The basic farm types we offer are: farms with horses, livestock farms, and general/mixed farms. You can read more about each of these types in the farm program outline.
The basic farm types we offer are: farms with horses, livestock farms, and general/mixed farms (including non-animal farms, orchards, vineyards). You can read more about each of these types in the farm program outline.
We recommend all candidates to bring sleeping bag, and pillow cases and a pillow if you have space in your luggage or you may prefer to buy it in Australia. Some accommodation provides this but not that many do, so it is generally better to bring your own. You should also anticipate needing bedding, towels, toiletries and clothing for all weather conditions.
Income Tax is the percentage of your income that is collected by the tax department. Personal income tax is payable at the time the income is earned, and when you work in Australia your employer should deduct tax at source at the required rate. If you have paid too much tax (or too little!) you should file an income tax return. The tax year ends June 31 every year in Australia. Internex is not a registered tax agent and cannot give advice on tax however all information you require is available at http://www.ird.govt.nz/income-tax-individual/ or https://www.ato.gov.au
Placements are available in the Back of House, Kitchen, Cleaning, Food and Beverage, Maintenance, Guest Services, Retail, Front Office departments.
We offer internships in private, public, government, non-government, charity, and not-for-profit organisations.
Each of our placements has specific requirements, and we’ll place you depending on your individual background, experience, level of English, and length of stay. In most cases, you’ll need to have an interview or two with your prospective host organisation.
We offer internships in private, public, government, non-government, charity, and not-for-profit organisations.
Each of our placements has specific requirements, and we’ll place you depending on your individual background, experience, level of English, visa type and length of stay. In most cases, you’ll need to have an interview or two with your prospective host organisation.
If you’re a current student and the internship forms part of your studies, you can undertake an internship for the duration required by your institution. However, if your internship will NOT form part of your studies, you may only intern for up to 19 hours per week with an NGO, not-for-profit, or charity organisation. We will advise you on your work visa and other visa requirements in your interview.
We offer internships in private, public, government, non-government, charity, and not-for-profit organisations.
Each of our placements has specific requirements, and we’ll place you depending on your individual background, experience, level of English, and length of stay. In most cases, you’ll need to have an interview or two with your prospective host organisation.
If you’re a current student and the internship forms part of your studies, you can undertake an internship for the duration required by your institution. However, if your internship will NOT form part of your studies, you may only intern for up to 18 hours per week with an NGO, not-for-profit, or charity organisation.
You need upper intermediate English for all our programs and for some internship placements you may need advanced English. Foreign language ability can be a bonus in tourism, hospitality, and international trade placements.
We offer a wide variety of entry-level hospitality and tourism jobs. These include guest services, food and beverage service, culinary/kitchen jobs, cleaning, and hotel operations roles. Resort locations also offer a range of more specialised jobs, including chefs, ski instructors and lifeguarding. We make sure we’ve found the perfect job for you, ensuring it matches your experience, education, level of English, work visa status, and ability to stay a full season.
We offers a wide variety of entry-level hospitality and tourism jobs. These include guest services, food and beverage service, culinary/kitchen jobs, cleaning, and hotel operations roles. We also offer more specific roles for those with relevant experience, in fields such as lifeguarding, golf caddying, and luxury lodge operations. We make sure we’ve found the perfect job for you, ensuring it matches your experience, education, level of English, work visa status, and ability to stay a full season.
Between 4 and 24 weeks. If you want to take the program for longer than 12 weeks, you’ll need a working holiday visa (subclass 417) or a work and holiday visa (subclass 462).
If you have previous experience with horse or farming, or you have lived on a farm before then you can apply to stay for up to 24 weeks.
the maximum duration for someone with no experience is 12 weeks. You may be able to extend once you arrive and if everything is going well. It will be up to your farm family if you can stay longer.
Our internships generally last between 4 and 24 weeks, although longer placements can be made if you have particular requirements.
An internship of 4-10 weeks is usually long enough to observe and participate in an organisation’s basic processes, learn about its business philosophy, and begin helping out on various projects.
An internship of 10-20 weeks is usually enough time to participate in and start to master basic business processes, to become an integral part of the team, and to start managing your own projects and becoming involved with larger team projects.
An internship of 20+ weeks allows you to master business processes and even start improving those processes, to become a fundamental part of the team, and to take on more complex projects both independently and as part of a team.
Our internships last between 4 and 24 weeks or longer if your University requires it.
An internship of 4-10 weeks is usually long enough to observe and participate in an organisation’s basic processes, learn about its business philosophy, and begin helping out on various projects.
An internship of 11-20 weeks is usually enough time to participate in and start to master basic business processes, to become an integral part of the team, and to start managing your own projects and becoming involved with larger team projects.
An internship of 21+ weeks allows you to master business processes and even start improving those processes, to become a fundamental part of the team, and to take on more complex projects both independently and as part of a team.
We can discuss the internship length and what is best for your outcomes in your one on one interview with your placement supervisor.
Between 4 and 20 weeks. Please speak to us if you would like to stay longer.
Hair must be neat. For females, hair must be tied back when it is a safety issue. For males, hair must be above the collar and cut to mid-ear length at the sides. Jewellery should be worn in moderation. Women may wear one earring of the same size in each ear. Men may wear one small stud or ring. Other facial jewellery or exposed body piercings must be removed while at work, such as tongue rings or studs. Personal hygiene is important and aftershave and perfume should be kept to a minimum.
Our internships generally last between 4 and 24 weeks, although longer placements can be made if your university requires it.
An internship of 4-8 weeks is usually long enough to observe and participate in an organisation’s basic processes, learn about its business philosophy, and begin helping out on various projects.
An internship of 8-16 weeks is usually enough time to participate in and start to master basic business processes, to become an integral part of the team, and to start managing your own projects and becoming involved with larger team projects.
An internship of 16+ weeks allows you to master business processes and even start improving those processes, to become a fundamental part of the team, and to take on more complex projects both independently and as part of a team.
We’ve made this as simple as we can. First, you complete our online application which asks for your basic personal information and detailed program information and asks you to agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.
When you have submitted your online application our team will review your application and if suitable, you’ll receive a request by email to complete your application, pay your refundable program deposit of $200 and book a time for your online consultation via Zoom . On this call you’ll meet your assigned placement supervisor who will ask you more questions about yourself and your application. You must also have your up to dave CV ready as your placement supervisor will request this.
If we decide to move forward and accept you into the program, you’ll receive a program letter of confirmation and access to join our membership site (which is free to all program applicants) and we’ll set about finding an appropriate placement for you.
You may be required to have additional interviews with host organisations. Once a placement is agreed you will need to pay your remaining placement fees and we’ll then send you your placement details. Placement details will be available at least 30 days before you’re due to start your placement.
Once you’ve received your placement details, if your program requires you to travel to the destination, you need to book your flights and upload your fight information in the membership lounge. We’ll then be able to send you your custom travel itinerary and an arrival package, providing all the practical details you need to have before you go.
Then it’s time to pack your bags and your journey can begin!
An internship is a period of supervised, unpaid, practical training or experience for qualified students and professionals. It can take place remotely or onsite within an organisation and is a time-limited, not permanent, role.
What’s in it for you? A taste of real-world experience in your chosen academic or professional field, giving you a leg up on your peers.
An internship or practicum is a period of supervised, unpaid experience for qualified participants. It is time limited, project based to give you the opportunity to observe real-world, practical examples of your education in practice.
An internship is a period of supervised, unpaid, practical training or experience for qualified students and professionals. It can take place remotely or onsite within an organisation and is a time-limited, not permanent, role.
What’s in it for you? A taste of real-world experience in your chosen academic or professional field, giving you a leg up on your peers.
Our Ranchstay Program is an opportunity to live on a working farm and gain a sense of farming life. For 4-20 weeks, you become a member of a local farming family, working together, sharing meals, and socialising.
Our Farmstay program is an opportunity to live on a working farm and gain a sense of farming life. For 4-24 weeks, you become a member of a local farming family, working together, sharing meals, and socialising.
If you’re coming on a visitor permit, the maximum duration of your stay is 12 weeks. If you’d like to come for more than 12 weeks, you’ll need a working holiday visa (subclass 417) or a work and holiday visa (subclass 462).
We fully expect and hope that you’ll love your time on placement in all our host destinations, however, we are there to support you if you have any issues. If you run into a problem while on placement, we encourage you to try and solve it on your own first, as we consider overcoming obstacles one of the benefits of undertaking a program abroad. But if you encounter an issue you can’t resolve on your own, you can contact your local placement supervisor. If they are unable to help, you can also speak directly to your Internex program supervisor. Replacements may be possible where appropriate and where you’ve followed our processes correctly. Be sure to read the terms and conditions of the program. In general, please keep your Internex program agent up to date on any issues you have had and resolved on placement.
Farm life is already challenging without having medical conditions. From years of experience we have found those who are not physically and mentally stable do not adapt well to farm life. In addition, farm work can be dangerous if you cannot physically or mentally get through the day with ease. Therefore, we ask that you only apply if you are not suffering any current or previous conditions.
The Farm Au Pair or Groom position is suitable for Vegetarians. You are required to buy your own additional dietary foods if the family does not eat the vegetarian / vegan food that you desire, as it tends to be more expensive. E.g. almond milk, meat free protein products, coconut yoghurt, tofu etc. You must also help more in the kitchen with preparing and cooking so your eating habits do not make life difficult for your host family.
We expect all candidates to go through a period of home sickness in the first month or so of the placement and expect a period of adjustment in this time. If after this first month you believe the placement is not what you expected, you can contact Internex and explain the situation. If there is a valid reason for wanting to change locations that fall outside the scope of your contract (example; abuse in the work-place) then Internex will talk with the host company to ensure that the reason for change is valid. If the reason is valid then placement search will begin. When a suitable placement has been found then Internex will inform your current employer that you are giving two weeks notice. Only then can you move location. If the reason for the request for change is not valid then there will be no replacement. ALWAYS speak to Internex before you make any decisions. If you quit without following the correct steps Internex will not offer any support or replacement. In All situations, 2 weeks notice must be given to an employer before departing the company.
We offer both full-time (up to 40 hours per week) and part-time internships (as few as 16 hours per week), so you can manage your internship around your studies and other commitments. Your weekly hours will depend on your preferences, the needs of your host organisation, and any requirements your university might have.
We offer both full-time (up to 40 hours per week) and part-time internships (as few as 15 hours per week), so you can manage your internship around your studies and other commitments. Your weekly hours will depend on your preferences, the needs of your host organisation, and any requirements your university might have.
If you’re not undertaking your internship as part of your program of study, the maximum number of hours you can work per week is 18.
If you’re travelling to another country or within the host country for your program, you’ll receive an arrival package before you depart. This includes information about customs, immigration, your transfer and accommodation, and what to expect on your journey and about your destination.
If you’re travelling to another part of the country after orientation you’ll need to book our three night arrival package when you arrive. This includes one-way airport transfer and three nights’ hostel accommodation, breakfast and wifi. After your third night in your arrival city, you’ll depart for your final location in the country.
If your program is taking place in your landing city you’ll choose between our three night arrival package (detailed above) and then find your own accommodation or you can choose :
- A 28+ night homestay – including one-way airport transfer and at least 28 nights with a local host family
- A 14+ night private room hostel – including one-way airport transfer and at least 14 nights in a private room in a downtown hostel
You will also have the chance to attend a welcome orientation in Auckland for New Zealand, Sydney for Australia or Vancouver for Canada.
If for any reason you want to cancel, you must contact your placement supervisor before deciding to cancel your program. Please make sure you have looked at the terms and conditions of your specific program – in particular the refund conditions and program conditions that you agree to at the time of booking.
If you are fired with good reason as per your employment contract with the company Internex holds no responsibility for finding you another position or any other support; however if you are fired for no good reason we will support you into a new position. If you are fired for good reason and you are not on an open working visa then we are obligated to inform Australian immigration.
One of our local representatives will provide you with useful information about your host city – including everything you need to know about living, traveling, working/volunteering. We’ll talk about how to get around, where to meet people, how to get a SIM card and what the city’s must-do activities are. If you’ve booked a work program, we’ll also arrange your local tax number and bank account. If you have booked Work and Travel you will also have a work orientation about finding a job, updating your CV, interview tips. You will have a chance to ask questions and get to know our friendly team!
You will have a 3 night Arrival package in Sydney included in your fees. This includes transfer from the airport, first 3 nights’ accommodation and breakfast, orientation and a chance to adjust to the Aussie life and get over jet-lag before traveling to your placement location and starting work. If you plan to study or live in homestay accommodation then we can arrange transfer to your accommodation.
Internex works with 2, 3, 4 and 5 star hotels and resorts, restaurants, companies that support hotels (like cleaning companies) mountain biking resorts and golf resorts, retail stores, cafes, car rental companies and franchise food stores, and can therefore make the best fit for you and for the property / company Note: Every company has individual minimum requirements for entry to the hotel, no matter what the position. Some people that may be able to get a front desk position at a 3-star hotel in a more remote area may not be even able to get a housekeeping position in a more popular tourist area. It is important to decide what is more important, the position or the location.
Each program has different program fees which you can see here.
These differ according to program. Make sure you check the program change and cancellation fees at the time of logging in and booking.
Placements are available year round, with typical start dates generally from mid September – mid October for the busy summer season in the Southern states and we can also make placements in May to October for dry season in the Tropical North.
You’ll have full use of all your host’s property facilities, including kitchens, laundry, and any additional facilities such as pools, tennis courts, and rental equipment. There are usually discounts on food and beverages onsite too, as well as free or discounted tourism activities with local tourism providers. You will also meet a lot of people and make many new friends.
Many hotel/hostel/campground employers offer discounted food and beverages, which can help you save your money for travelling! Some hotels and campgrounds also allow staff full use of facilities such as tennis courts and swimming pools.
Most of our hosts will offer their workers discounts on rentals, food, and beverages. Individual resorts and hotels may offer additional benefits packages for social events and bonuses. More remote hotels also tend to offer staff benefits such as mountain biking passes, ski lift pass and the use of onsite facilities such as tennis courts and pools.
Our application process is easy. There are standard visa, insurance, age and eligibility requirements and some requirements may differ according to the program you would like to undertake, including factors such as your field of interest, what qualifications you have and how advanced your English is.
Please see relevant program and project pages to learn more about specific requirements.
Everyone must complete the online application form and have an up to date CV ready before you meet your placement supervisor.
You will work enough hours on the farm to cover the cost of your accommodation and meals which is around 5-6 hours per day. You are also expected to help out with general chores around the house as you would in any home for around 10 hours per week, e.g. Cooking dinner, tidying your bedroom, doing the shopping etc.
Professional Internship New Zealand: 18-30
Professional Internship Australia: 18-30
Professional Internship Canada: 19-30
Farmstay New Zealand: 18-35
Farmstay Australia: 18-35
Ranchstay Canada: 19-35
Resort Jobs Canada: 18-35
Hospitality Jobs Australia: 18-30
Hospitality Jobs New Zealand: 18-30
Tourism Training: 18-30
Volunteer programs: 18-35
If you are going to have homestay accommodation 2 meals per day is included, however the host company meals are not included. Some hotels have staff cafeterias where you can receive discounted meals when you are on duty but this is not guaranteed. It is your responsibility to buy food and cook food in your accommodation. You should anticipates spending about $100 per week on food however some people spend less and some spend a lot more.
Take a look at the relevant project pages Programs for the project you are interested in and if you cannot find the answer to your questions please reach out to our teams via the Contact Us page and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
Accommodation costs are included in your placement.
All participants for this program are paid prevailing wage rates for Australia . This can vary depending on the location and time of year. Number of hours per week are not guaranteed and are based on performance and business of the employer. Please note, tipping is not expected in Australia. You can visit the following link to see prevailing wage rates:https://www.fairwork.gov.au/how-we-will-help/templates-and-guides/fact-sheets/minimum-workplace-entitlements/minimum-wages#current-national-minimum-wage
Transportation differs per city and country however you should budget approximately $50 per week for city transport. If you need to travel from your landing city to your placement then transport may cost between from $50-$250, depending on the mode of travel to get there. We also offer tours with backpacker bus companies if you have more time and budget.
Our accommodation options will cost CA$500-700 per month, including utilities. Smaller towns such as Banff and Whistler tend to be more expensive accommodation locations. For private rental accommodation, you may need to put forward a one month rental deposit (returned to you provided you leave the accommodation in the same condition you found it), and you’ll have to pay your rent a month in advance. There may be discounts if you can pay your entire stay’s rent up front. Staff accommodation costs will be deducted from your wages and do not need to be paid in advance.
Our long-term accommodation options will cost up to NZ$300 per week, including power, water, and gas. Some staff accommodation options (provided by your employer) may offer discounts on accommodation.
You will earn at least Canadian minimum wage (currently approx $15.00 per hour) and your hours of work will depend on your employer. You’re likely to work between 20-40 hours per week, for the entire season. You’ll likely work 4-6 days per week. There will be busier periods during public holidays and school holidays, and you’ll need to be available to work on weekends and during the evenings, as these are key tourism times.
Your wages will be at least minimum wage, which is approximately NZ$20 before tax. Your hours of work will depend on your employer, but you’re likely to work between 20-40 hours per week, for the entire summer season (October-April). There will be busier periods during the school holidays (between Christmas and mid-Feb, and at Easter). You’ll need to be available to work on weekends and public holidays, and during the evenings, as these are key tourism times.
You are considered a seasonal full time employee which means that your hours are not guaranteed. Hours vary according to company demands however the average is approximately 30 per week across a full season. (Note: if you are on a work permit as a part of a study program the maximum you can work per week is 20 hours per week). These hours are not guaranteed, due to the nature of the tourism industry. You will be given a roster (that is subject to change) by your manager 1 or 2 weeks in advance of your shifts. You are expected to be available on the weekends and Public Holidays and evenings. Note: Internex and your agent are not responsible for hours because this industry sector is highly susceptible to seasonality and factors beyond its control such as exchange rates, snow conditions, airline traffic and so. You should expect to have enough money to support yourself in Australia for at least 2-3 months in case hours are lower where you are working.
Generally, you should help out for about 5-7 hours per day, not including basic activities like cooking, cleaning, and grocery shopping. Some participants prefer to help out more when it’s busy on the farm and have more free time when it’s quiet.
Generally, you should help out for about 5-7 hours per day, not including basic activities like cooking, cleaning, and grocery shopping. Some participants prefer to help out more when it’s busy on the farm and have more free time when it’s quiet
The number of hours of internship depends on several factors including the type of visa you hold, your University requirements and the host organisations capacity. If you are not taking an internship as a part of a study program then your maximum hours may only be 19 hours per week. If you have a working holiday visa you may like to have a part time internship so you can pick up a part time job in your spare time. You can discuss your hours of internship with your placement supervisor. We can also liaise with your University to ensure all their requirements can be met.
In Auckland, host organisations are located all over the city, so your travel time will depend on where you live. However, we aim to keep travel time as short as possible, and if you book accommodation via INTERNeX, we’ll ensure that your travel time is no longer than an hour each way (which is an average Auckland commute). Outside of Auckland, travel times tend to be shorter than an hour.
We do our best to make sure your travel time is as short as possible. Your maximum commute time on public transport will be up to 60 minutes each way.
Our internships generally last between 4 and 24 weeks, although longer placements can be made if your university requires it.
An internship of 4-8 weeks is usually long enough to observe and participate in an organisation’s basic processes, learn about its business philosophy, and begin helping out on various projects.
An internship of 8-16 weeks is usually enough time to participate in and start to master basic business processes, to become an integral part of the team, and to start managing your own projects and becoming involved with larger team projects.
An internship of 16+ weeks allows you to master business processes and even start improving those processes, to become a fundamental part of the team, and to take on more complex projects both independently and as part of a team.
The winter season is dictated by snow conditions, so it will depend. The shortest placement lasts approximately 20 weeks, from early December to mid-April, and the longest lasts approximately 26 weeks, from early November to late May. Please let us know what dates you are available on when you make your application and we’ll find a suitable host for you.
In summer, the shortest placements last approximately 12 weeks (at mountain biking and activity centres), from late June to mid-September. Longer placements are available at most other hotels and tourism companies for 20-24 weeks. These run from late May to early October. Please let us know what dates you’re available and we’ll find you a suitable host.
You must commit to the full season (summer is typically Sep/Oct – Apr/May). As we work with over 50 partners, some start dates and end dates may differ slightly. If these dates are not possible for you, please let us know and we’ll check for alternative openings.
Participants need to commit to a full season or longer. We would like all participants to be able to commit to 22 weeks. Placements may not be longer than 6 months as per visa restrictions, however we can make 2 placements at different locations if they would like a 1 year placement. Please note this will incur 2x placement fees.
We carefully select your placement based on factors such as your individual background and experience, your level of English and your visa status.
After you apply for the program you will have a consultation/interview with one of our Placement Supervisors. Once you are accepted in the program we commence our search for a suitable local organisation for you. You will then have an interview with your potential host organisation, which our Placement Supervisor will organise.
Once we’ve found the perfect organisation for you, we’ll send you a placement agreement outlining some key information about your placement, such as your tasks and responsibilities, start and end dates and accommodation options.
We carefully select your placement based on factors such as your individual background and experience, your level of English, and your visa status. After you apply for the program, you’ll speak to one of our local placement partners, who will look for a suitable local organisation for you. You will then have an interview with your potential host organisation, which our representative will organise. Once we’ve found the perfect organisation for you, we’ll send you a placement agreement outlining some key information about your placement, such as your tasks and responsibilities, start and end dates, wage rates, and accommodation options.
We’re dedicated to choosing the right placement for you – one where you’ll be comfortable but also challenged in all the right ways. We carefully select your internship based on factors such as your individual background and experience, your level of English, and the length of your stay.
After you apply for our internship program, you’ll be assigned a placement supervisor, whom you’ll meet via a video conferencing tool. In this meeting, you’ll be able to ask any questions you may have about the program and voice any preferences you have. Following the meeting, your supervisor will start your placement search and find a suitable organisation to host you.
You may need to have an interview or two with your potential host organisation, which your supervisor will organise.
Once we’ve found the perfect organisation for you, we’ll send you a placement agreement outlining some key information about your internship, such as your tasks and responsibilities.
We carefully select your internship based on factors such as your individual background and experience, your level of English, length of stay, your visa type and status in Canada.
After you apply you’ll be assigned a placement supervisor, whom you’ll meet via a video conferencing tool. In this meeting, you’ll be able to ask any questions you may have about the program and voice any preferences you have and the supervisor will be able to indicate what may or may not be possible. Following the meeting, your supervisor will start your placement search and find a suitable organisation to host you.
You may need to have an interview or two with your potential host organisation, which your supervisor will organise. Once we’ve found the perfect organisation for you, we’ll send you a placement agreement outlining some key information about your internship, such as your and tasks responsibilities.
We carefully select your placement based on factors such as your individual background and experience, your level of English, and your visa status. After you apply for the program you will have a consultation/interview with one of our Placement Supervisors. Once approved in the program we will look for a suitable local organisation for you. You will then have an interview with your potential host organisation, which we organise. Once we’ve found the perfect organisation for you, we’ll send you a placement agreement outlining some key information about your placement, such as your tasks and responsibilities, start and end dates, wage rates, and accommodation options.
After you apply for the Ranchstay Program, one of our local partners will hold a Zoom consultation with you to assess what sort of placement would suit you best. Following this we will contact suitable farm hosts to see whether they’d like to host you. You may have an interview with a potential host family at this stage. Once we’ve found you a suitable host, you’ll receive your placement information which confirms your placement and outlines your tasks and responsibilities.
After you complete your online application for a Farmstay placement one of our Placement Supervisor will arrange an online Skype interview with you to discuss your application and hear any preferences or expectations you have. Following your interview your placement supervisor will be in contact with suitable farming families to determine if they would like to offer you the job. You may require an interview with the potential farm host. When a suitable farm is found we will send you a placement agreement that outlines the family profile, tasks, responsibilities and other information. You will also be required to sign an Employment Agreement, Tenancy Agreement and some other documentation.
When your location and company has been decided you will be given a choice on how you want to get there. You can catch the bus or you can fly. The cost can range from $50 – $300 (depending on flight prices) Also, although a car is not necessary some staff chip in and buy a car together.
Some hotels and resorts in more remote locations offer short term or long term staff accommodation to their staff, and in some locations you are expected to find your own share house accommodation. Internex assists you to find accommodation during the time at their placement and we never send people to places where it is known to be difficult or we cannot secure accommodation in advance for you. In general, expect to pay one month damage deposit for accommodation and about $130 – $225 per week in share house accommodation. If staff accommodation is available it is usually shared with 1 or 2 others sharing the same room, 5-6 sharing the same bathroom and up to 15 sharing the same kitchen but will cost less. Homestay or Residence may be available in some locations. Information on housing will be provided when your job offer is sent to you.
Very easily! Start your application here and we’ll look forward to meeting you on Zoom!
Of course meeting the minimum English requirement, staying at least one full season, and having the experience is required, employers are also looking for self-sufficient, flexible, motivated, happy and smiley staff with excellent personal grooming, a passion for the tourism industry, and a “can-do” and “I like to get things completed” attitude.
Our internship and volunteer programs are all unpaid and you’ll pay for your own meals, accommodation and any other personal expense.
On our work experience programs you’ll receive at least minimum wage and you’ll pay for your meals and accommodation either directly to the staff accommodation or to accommodation you’ve secured yourself.
When you work at the location of your employment, accommodation fees may be deducted by your employer for staff accommodation.
Yes, it is compulsory for you to have travel and medical insurance when traveling to any of our destinations.
If you are travelling to New Zealand, Australia or Canada when we know your dates of departure and return to your home country we can offer you a competitive insurance quote.
Check out our Insurance information here Insurance
If you are a New Zealand, Australian or Canadian citizen remaining in your home country you do not require insurance.
Generally in New Zealand and Australia you only need the typical vaccinations for a developed country. You Can read more information here and find specific information on your destination country.
If you’re taking a program that requires a visa for longer than six months you generally require a health check. You can find more information about health checks at the following links;
For programs lasting less than 6 months or working holiday programs lasting longer than 6 months, you generally do not need any health check but this depends on your country of origin.
It is not a requirement to have an international driving licence for most of our programs unless you will be working in childcare and are required to take children to school and do grocery shopping. We do however recommend that you get an International licence for your time abroad so you are more independent in your placement and in your free time.
If you plan to work in New Zealand you will need a tax number (IRD Number). Internex can help to arrange your IRD number. You need a bank account and work visa to get a tax number.
To undertake one of our programs where you live with one of our hosts you must provide a police record check from every country you have lived in for longer than 6 months. In addition all our hosts must provide a police check too. When your placement involves working with children or vulnerable people, you also require a police check from every country you have lived for more than 6 months and may require a local police record check as well (which we can assist you with).
If you plan to work in New Zealand you will need a Bank account. Internex can help you arrange your bank account before you arrive in the country. You need a work visa to be able to get a bank account.
Our programs are open to students, graduates, professionals, and those looking for an OE (Overseas experience). Each project has differing requirements so it is good to check what the requirements are for each specific project.
Yes; so long as you have the necessary permits, visas, and are applicable to the program.
Yes, you’re welcome to take more than one program and many of our participants in the past have done so. We offer a 30% discount on your second placement, a 40% discount on your third, and a 50% discount on your fourth.
You can stay in Australia as long as your permit/visa allows.
Yes, you can certainly tell Internex that you want to apply for a particular placement, however all placements have minimum requirements based on experience, education, English, level, the ability to undertake placement for a full season, personal grooming, additional languages spoken and general attitude. All candidates should expect to spend at least some time, and in some cases a full season, working in the back of house such as housekeeping, cleaning or dishwashing department even if you meet all the minimum requirements. Details and basic minimum requirements are detailed below. Please note: even if you meet all the minimum requirements this does not guarantee that you will receive a placement in that department.
Yes you can. We have a lot of success with friends/partners getting placements at the same resort or in the same tourism community; however, it cannot be guaranteed and requires both people to be more flexible in the location and the type of placement.
We can make all internship placements are made in accordance with any requirements your university has. You should check with your university or faculty head that your placement can receive course credit and whether your university has any requirements you must meet – e.g. number of hours worked; length of placement etc. We’ll take these into account when we make your placement to ensure you can get credit.
In short, yes. We can make all internship placements are made in accordance with any requirements your university has. You should check with your university or faculty head that your placement can receive course credit and whether your university has any requirements you must meet – e.g. number of hours worked; length of placement etc. We’ll take these into account when we make your placement.
In short, yes. We can make all internship placements are made in accordance with any requirements your university has. You should check with your university or faculty head that your placement can receive course credit and whether your university has any requirements you must meet – e.g. number of hours worked; length of placement etc. We’ll take these into account when we make your placement.
Any students from our local or international partner universities will automatically get course credit applied on successful completion of your placement and submission to your University. If your University is not a partner of INTERNeX we are happy to provide any feedback or ensure reporting standards that are required for your University.
Yes, absolutely. If you’d like to book a language course, we can arrange one for you in Auckland, Queenstown, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Vancouver, Whistler, Toronto or Honolulu before you begin your placement. Other cities may be available on request. Please contact us for further details on this option or book it in the online application form. We work with several of the worlds best language schools and and will ensure you have the best possible English learning before you start your placement with one of our approved host organisations.
The first 3 months of your term with the host company are considered a probation period and you may not apply for any advancement or change of position. After 3 months you may apply for a change of position provided you meet the minimum requirements of the position you would like to apply for. These positions are usually advertised internally at the company. When you apply for the new position, the employer will usually ask for an additional 6 month commitment and will usually ask for a reference stating that you have not been late, absent or received any warnings for any reason from your current manager.
Make sure you join our mailing list to keep you up to date on any scholarships, awards or specials.
This depends on where you’re staying. Homestay fees include two meals per day: breakfast and dinner. You’ll need to arrange your own lunch.
A private room in a student residence or hostel does not include any meals.
Work programs such as hospitality, childcare, or farm work also do not include any meals unless otherwise stipulated in your employment agreement. However, those staying at a volunteer station on a volunteer program will get three meals per day.